Manila, Philippines (November 13, 2025)— President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. warned that those involved in the anomalous flood control projects will face legal consequences before the holidays, signaling the end of what he described as “happy days” for the perpetrators.
During a press briefing at Malacañang Palace, President Marcos emphasized that the implicated individuals will be pursued and prosecuted, making this Christmas far from merry for them.
The President mentioned that several Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) officials, including Henry Alcantara, Bryce Hernandez, Jason Mendez, and the married couple Discaya, are already facing cases filed with the Office of the Ombudsman. These names are among 37 individuals identified as involved in anomalies linked to flood control projects.
Luxury Vehicles Seized
As part of the investigation, authorities confiscated 13 luxury vehicles owned by the Discaya couple due to irregularities in the documentation of imported vehicles.
Criminal Charges Filed
Additionally, criminal charges have been filed against contractors St. Timothy Construction, Wawao Builders, and SYMS Construction Trading with the Ombudsman.
AMLC Freeze Orders
The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has also begun issuing seven freeze orders totaling ₱6.3 billion. These actions are part of the broader effort to hold accountable the 37 individuals, which include current and former DPWH officials, contractors, and even some congressmen, whose names were submitted to the Ombudsman by the Inter-Agency Council Investigation (ICI).
President Marcos stressed the urgency of the cases, saying,
“Before Christmas, I am confident that many of those named here will already face the full weight of the law. Their cases are complete, and they will be imprisoned. They will have no Merry Christmas.”
This announcement underscores the administration’s commitment to anti-corruption measures and the fight against irregularities in public infrastructure projects.